ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The city of Rochester has secured a $50,000 state grant to install new neighborhood banners downtown.

Officials say the new light pole banners will welcome visitors to the diverse and historic communities in the city center.

To get a sense of how much these neighborhoods have grown, since 2000 the population of downtown has blossomed from about 3,200 to close to 9,000.

Organizers hope the banners will also increase business for the local shops and stores many residents rely in these neighborhoods.

“Downtown Rochester continues to grow and thrive! From Inner Loop East to Parcel 5 to Roc the Riverway, we have a tremendous record of success during my time at City Hall," Mayor James Smith said in a statement. "And, none of these achievements would have been possible without our partners in State government. Now, we are going to let everyone know that we are open for business, thanks to this grant from Senator Cooney! I can’t wait to see these new banners up throughout our Center City!”

There are 13 separate downtown neighborhoods in town.